Installing new mobile home siding instantly updates the look of your home, increases its value, and can increase your home’s energy efficiency. It’s a smart improvement project for older and newer manufactured homes.
There are several mobile home siding options to choose from such as stone, wood, cedar, metal, and vinyl. Your choices are endless!
This guide will help you determine the best siding option for your home by covering the most popular mobile home siding materials, looking at the pros and cons, and comparing their prices. We will also provide installation help and advice on hiring the best siding installers.
Benefits of New Mobile Home Siding
The main benefits of installing new siding to your manufactured home are increased energy efficiency, better curb-appeal, and protection against the elements.
New siding can give you a high return on investment. Siding replacement has landed in the top 10 investments for homeowners for several years in a row.
New siding is a high return on investment improvement meaning the money you spend on it can be recouped two ways: lower energy bills and resell value.
1. New Mobile Home Siding Helps Reduce Heating and Cooling Costs
The most important benefit of new home siding is increased energy efficiency. By upgrading your old siding you can reduce energy costs. Of course, some siding materials have better insulating qualities than others and we’ll cover each in-depth.
Siding adds to the R-value of a home, meaning it helps hold the interior at a constant temperature for a longer time. This keeps your heating and cooling units from working overtime. By boxing the home in with additional insulation or foam board and then installing new siding you can substantially increase your home’s energy efficiency. You will need to account for added weight if you do this but it’s a great choice for mobile homes that are permanently installed and won’t be moved again (as is the case with 90% of manufactured homes).
Additional blocking of the foundation may be needed to account for the added weight if you go with fiber cement siding, brick, or real wood but it’s a smart choice and can save you lots of money on heating and cooling costs.
2. New Siding Creates a Barrier from Noise, Wind, and Animals
Another benefit of new siding is protection from noise. Noisy neighbors can be bothersome but new siding, when coupled with new insulation and windows, can drastically reduce noise levels in your home. This is an especially important benefit for homes in parks with close neighbors.
Better mobile home siding also provides pest control of sorts. An additional barrier from critters such as snakes, opossums, mice, and other small pests is never a bad thing!
Cracks and holes will be repaired during the installation process and the added layer of material will make your home a harder target to penetrate. Better siding may also help prevent moisture growth of mold, dust mites, and bacteria when installing with proper ventilation.
3. Increased Curb Appeal
Last but not least is the increased curb appeal that new siding gives a home. There’s no other home improvement project that will so drastically change the look of a home. You can make your home look completely different with new siding and shed years of age off in one project.
House Wraps, Vapor Barriers, Exterior Sheathing, and Backer Board
If you are replacing your mobile home’s siding it is highly recommended to take the opportunity to replace or install the vapor barrier, sheathing, backer board, and insulation.
Siding isn’t weatherproof so it needs a second line of defense to keep water from damaging your home.
When replacing a mobile home’s siding homeowners probably want to add or replace house wrap, vapor barrier, exterior sheathing, or backer board. That’s an added cost depending on your design and location. These products, when installed correctly, can increase your home’s lifespan and comfort for just a bit more money and hassle. Plus, the added costs of these replacements can be easily recouped with lower energy bills and a healthier, more studier home.
The added costs of these replacements can be easily recouped with lower energy bills and a healthier, more studier home.
Related: Read our Mobile Home Skirting Guide too.
Insulation is Important when Replacing Mobile Home Siding
It’s much easier to install insulation while the siding is off. The two most popular insulation choices are the fiberglass rolls or spraying foam between your studs like the two images below.
You can read our exhaustive mobile home insulation guide here to learn more.
Most Popular Mobile Home Siding Choices
Deciding which siding material best suits your aesthetic, budget, and overall needs will be a hard decision because there are so many materials and colors.
Luckily, siding isn’t overly susceptible to trends or fads – what was popular 20 years ago is still popular today. A good rule of thumb is to pick a neutral siding color that can work with a variety of trims or secondary colors to give it a new look should you need a change.
We’ve gathered information on all the most popular mobile home siding materials along with important information about each: the pros and cons, price, installation tips, and weight.
Vinyl Siding
Vinyl is installed on over 30% of all new homes making it the most popular siding choice for both mobile homes and site-built homes. It’s a favorite siding choice because it’s longlasting, affordable, and looks great. It’s also easy to install compared to the other siding choices, even the handy do-it-yourselfer can do it.
Many manufactured homes have recycled vinyl siding which is cheaper and thinner so it warps and fades. That’s why many homeowners need to replace their siding within a few years. If the home would’ve been sided with virgin vinyl it could have lasted twice as long.
If you have a choice, it’s a good idea to pay a bit more for the thicker virgin vinyl whether you’re ordering a new home or just replacing siding on your old mobile home.
Pros and Cons of Vinyl Siding
There are pros and cons to vinyl siding as with any product. Vinyl has more pros than cons but the cons are fairly serious. A great advantage of vinyl siding how easy it is to clean.
5 Top Advantages of Vinyl Siding
- Resists dents, hail damage, scratches and fading better (depending on thickness and quality)
- Impervious to rot, fungus, mildew, and wood boring insects
- Never needs painting
- An almost endless variety of colors and embossed grain
- Longlasting with warranties up to 20 years or more
Vinyl siding can withstand winds of up to 110 mp when properly installed. For hurricane-prone areas, vinyl is a good choice because vinyl doesn’t become a lethal weapon should it become airborne.
Vinyl is lightweight, weighing in at about 60 to 70 pounds per 100 feet so it’s no problem for mobile and manufactured homes.
Disadvantages of Vinyl Siding
The major disadvantages of vinyl siding are that it can distort, melt and warp in high heat. It can also crack in extremely cold climates. There’s not much to do for that but experts suggest adding awnings and reducing reflective rays from pools and windows.
Some homeowners dislike the synthetic look of vinyl.
Many manufactured homes don’t have an exterior sheathing at all so the vinyl siding is its only protection. My father’s 1986 Redman double wide was a mid-level model for that year but the vinyl siding was nailed straight to the studs with only insulation between the interior wall and the siding. Water can seep in behind the siding and quickly destroy the wood and insulation underneath.
Colors and Styles of Vinyl
Vinyl siding manufacturers offer up to 350 different colors so you can certainly find the color you want. The most popular style for mobile homes is dutch lap or clapboard.
The color combinations are vast and vinyl lasts for a very long time. It’s color retention and fading issues are getting better with new technology, Georgia Pacific vinyl has a 25-year excessive fade warranty and a 50-year product warranty.
Price of Vinyl Siding
Non-insulated vinyl siding usually comes in 12′ foot long panels that are 8-12″ high. Mobile Home Parts Store sells vinyl siding in cases with 22 pieces that are 9″ height x 12’1″ in length for $236.00. Each case covers 200 square feet. Keep in mind that buying bulky or extra long products like vinyl siding from an online source will have a steep shipping cost. Here are the specs from the listing:
To replace or install vinyl siding you will be looking at roughly $1.20 per sqft. Any price within 30 cents of this is fairly decent depending on location.
Tips for Installing Vinyl Siding
Make sure there are small holes on the bottom of each edge on the siding to drain water (I’ve never seen any vinyl siding that didn’t have those, but just make sure to be safe).
Download a vinyl siding installation guide here.
Read more about installing vinyl siding from Lowe’s.
Is Insulated Vinyl Siding Worth the Added Cost?
There are two main types of vinyl siding: insulated, or foam-backed vinyl, and non-insulated. Vinyl and insulated vinyl sidings are the most popular siding materials and they see an average ROI of 72%.
There is a lot of controversy regarding insulated vinyl siding though so you’ll want to research extensively before you consider it.
Apparently, insulated vinyl isn’t all that great at insulating. It’s the same issue with insulated skirting for mobile homes. I was initially against buying insulated skirting products for mobile homes because you could install your own foam behind skirting at a lower cost and get a better R-value. However, some of the newer insulated products seem to be a worthwhile investment. The same is likely true with insulated vinyl siding (but I’m no vinyl expert).
Insulated vinyl siding costs are almost double that of regular vinyl siding. However, insulated vinyl siding has an R-value of 2.7. Non-insulated vinyl siding has an R-value of 2. Is an increase of .7 worth the extra cost and installation hassles? Insulated vinyl siding manufacturers are quick to speak about thermal bridging as a reason to install their product but the so-called advantage was almost negligible in testing. One of the main advantages of insulated vinyl siding appears to be a quicker drying time and a stiffer, or stronger, barrier.
Both insulated and non-insulated vinyl has the advantages listed above. The following pros and cons refer to the differences between the insulated and non-insulated vinyl siding:
Vinyl Siding Pros and Cons
Pros: Easier to install, good drainage so it dries quicker
Cons: Easier to damage, can appear wavy or warped
Cost: Averages between $0.70 to $6.00 per square foot
Insulated Vinyl Siding Pros and Cons
Pros: Thicker and sturdier so it resists impact better, reduces thermal bridging
Cons: Harder to install, takes longer to dry so exterior sheathing may be necessary
Cost: Anywhere from $2.00 to $8.00 per square foot
Wood Siding
Wood is beautiful but it requires a bit more attention than other siding materials for mobile homes. You can’t beat that beautiful warmth and traditional look that wood siding offers though.
Wood makes a great choice for manufactured home siding but it does have issues like rot, water damage, and high maintenance.
T1-11
T1-11 is available in two grades – OSB which is the cheaper grade is made from many smaller pieces of wood glued and formed into the grooved sheets. OSB T1-11 is rough and not easily stained or painted.
Plywood is a more expensive grade wood sheeting made from larger wood pieces that are glued and formed into the grooved sheets. It is smoother and the preferred choice for mobile home siding because it is easier to sand and seal with paint or stain.
T1-11 panels are versatile and can be used vertically or horizontally but vertical installation is the smartest choice to minimize water damage.
Pros and Cons of T1-11 Siding
T1-11 is not as popular as it once was since better waterproof material can be found around the same price.
Disadvantages of T1-11 are the same as with any wood: rot, water damage, insects, and high maintenance. Fortunately, you can seal the wood with a quality paint or stain to reduce water damage and insect infestation.
Price of T1-11
T1-11 comes in 4′ × 8′ foot sheets of plywood siding. You can get it from Lowe’s or Home Depot for around $30- $40 per sheet.
Tips for Installing T1-11 on a Mobile Home
As stated above, you should install T1-11 on the vertical to allow water to slide off it.
Related: Read more about installing T1-11 here.
Cedar Siding
Cedar offers a timeless complement to any architectural style from traditional to contemporary. Eastern and Western Red Cedar are used for siding, but there’s also Yellow cedar which is used for poles and posts mostly.
We’ve shared a few mobile and manufactured homes with cedar siding. It’s a great way to add texture and uniqueness to a manufactured home.
Cedar siding is available in shake (small wedge planks), log cabin cut, lap, bevel, tongue and groove, and regular board and batten as well as a few specialty shapes. Wood siding is the same, minus the plank. Cedar is known for its natural insect repulsion as well as its decay and moisture resistance.
Pros and Cons
Cedar is known for its natural insect repulsion as well as its decay and moisture resistance.
You can also choose a factory finished or non-finished. Non-finished wood has to be protected or painted every 10-15 years. Most wouldn’t dare paint cedar, though, because it’s naturally beautiful!
The weight of kiln dried cedar is a bit lower than fiber siding at an average of 292 pounds per 100 feet. This could cause an issue if the home needs to be relocated. Vapor barriers are necessary so factor that into your cost, too. The cellular structure of cedar is great for heat retention and cold resistance.
Colors, Styles, and Design of Cedar Siding
There’s a choice of a kiln, or oven dried, or air dried. Oven dried costs more because it removes the most moisture which in turn allows for less shrinking and shifting.
Price of Cedar Siding for Mobile Homes
Installation Tips for Cedar Siding
Installation depends on the type of cut. Cedar planks are very labor intensive whereas plain wooden levels aren’t as difficult. You cannot use common nails or screws. Only galvanized, stainless steel or aluminum can be used to keep rust stains from appearing on the wood.
Oil-based water sealant is the preferred method of protection. Wood should be painted regularly.
We’ve featured a single wide with cedar plank siding and it is gorgeous, you won’t want to miss it!
Faux Stone Siding
Manufactured stone can also be called cultured stone veneers or architectural stone. Whatever you call it, stone used as siding adds dimension and gives a mobile home the look of permanency.
It’s mostly made the same with Portland cement and oxide coloring and formed in a mold. Since the panels are mass produced they cost less than real stone.
Faux stone is made of polyurethane or a polymer and combined with chemicals like fire retardants and UV inhibitors.
Pros and Cons of Faux Stone Siding
Energy efficiency is not as good as real stone but still decent compared to other siding options. They should have at least a 25-year warranty.
Stone siding is beautiful and has some nice benefits such as resisting rot, insect, fire, and water (depending on brand).
Manufactured stone has a great energy efficiency factor. They do have warranties that can be as high as 50 years.
Colors and Styles of Siding
Faux stone comes in various shapes, sizes, corner pieces, and trim pieces.
Price of Faux Stone
Unfortunately, faux stone can be a bit expensive so most homeowners only use it as an accent. Adding stone around the entryway or as mobile home skirting are popular treatments.
Higher cost faux panels even use real stone that has been smashed into very small pieces to give the appearance a more natural look. It’s very light at about 100 pounds per 100 feet.
Installation of Faux Stone Siding
Installation is easy due to the decreased weight and paneling system used. They come in various shapes and sizes as well as trim and corner pieces.
Fiber Cement Siding
Fiber cement siding comes in various sized boards and thickness and is available in numerous styles. It can even mimic the look of just about any other siding on the market like vinyl and cedar shake. It’s rot and insect resistant and can even withstand ocean side conditions.
Pros and Cons of Fiber Cement
One of the major cons for manufactured homeowners is the weight. Fiber cement board weighs close to 300 pounds per 100 square feet so that may be an issue if you ever need to move the home.
Usually, fiber cement siding has a 50-year warranty with the ‘baked on’ finish warranty having a 10-15 year warranty against fade and color reduction.
Colors, Styles, and Designs of Fiber Cement Siding
The two most common types of fiber cement siding are Hardiplank, made by James Hardie Corporation and Weatherboards, made by CertainTeed Corporation.
Price of Fiber Cement
Although higher in cost than vinyl, fiber cement is still an economical alternative to wood siding. It is made of silica, cement, wood fiber, water, and other ingredients giving it outstanding durability. Since it is close to 90% silica (sand) it is fire resistant and can withstand very, very high heat.
Installation of Fiber Cement Siding
Installation is more expensive than vinyl, and you will have to paint it eventually (remember, the finish is usually only warranted for 10-15 years). You could go with horizontal or vertical installation or you could go with both to add some extra visual appeal.
Metal Siding for Mobile Homes
Metal siding has been used for decades in mobile and manufactured homes. In fact, it was the most common siding material for mobile homes for decades, until vinyl siding
It’s lightweight and practically indestructible because it’s fire-proof and insect-proof. It can’t melt but it can dent and scratch.
The energy efficiency and installation are comparable to vinyl siding. If this is what your home already has and you’re wanting to update it, painting it may be an option for you.
Price of Aluminum Siding
The cheapest aluminum siding is 44-gauge and around 0.4”thick but you can go thicker for a more durable siding at 53-gauge or with 0.53” thick. naturally, thicker aluminum is more expensive but it has better insulating factors and noise reduction.
3×8 sheet of aluminum siding from Home Depot will cost about $80.
Updating Your Mobile Home’s Siding
New siding is the best way to give a mobile home a complete facelift. It can improve the insulation abilities of a home and increase the value significantly.
Mobile Home Siding Tips for Flat Roofs
Installing new mobile home siding can be a bit more complicated if you live in a mobile home that has a flat roof. If that is the case, you will probably have to extend your roof line or devise a way to prevent water from getting behind the new siding.
There are a few different options you can consider to get your new siding to play well with a flat roof. The first is a gutter system that would wrap around your home and divert the water away from your home.
The second option is to build out a soffit and flashing that maneuvers the water away from the siding. Both could be used to keep water away from the new siding but you have to be careful that you do not compromise the roof’s integrity. Read more about installing soffits here.
Hiring Mobile Home Siding Installers
If you are hiring contractors to install your mobile home siding it is best to get a minimum of 3 estimates and make sure everything is written out.
Always have a written agreement, not just a verbal one. Material lists should be detailed and accurate.
Don’t be scared to call past customers to check references! A true professional will actually encourage it. Request their license number and insurance information – if you’re going to pay for a professional you should get a professional.
Why Consider the Weight of New Siding
Weight is an important consideration for manufactured homes simply due to the way they are built. It doesn’t mean your home is inferior or poorly constructed – it simply means that it was designed so precisely that it can travel down a highway at 55 mph and still be as structurally sound as any site-built home.
If there is a chance that your home will be moved after the new siding has been installed the weight of the material will need to be considered carefully and additional reinforcement may be needed. Even if your home will never be moved again it is still important to understand that the home was built in such a way that additional weight could cause structural issues down the road so keeping the weight of the materials in mind is smart.
Related: Mobile Home Heating Guide
Summary for Mobile Home Siding Guide
Replacing your mobile home’s siding is a great home improvement project. New siding instantly updates the look of the home and can increase your home’s energy efficiency.
Mobile homes have just as many choices for new siding as a site-built home, perhaps even more because mobile home owners are known to be inventive and creative. I’ve seen some gorgeous mobile homes with unique siding combinations.
Cost is a huge factor in deciding which siding material is right for you but you also need to consider lifespan and installation methods. While one material may cost less it may take longer to install or need a special installation method thus costing more in the long run.
If you have any questions about mobile home siding please feel free to ask them in the comments below. We’ll do our best to get you pointed in the right direction.
Thanks for reading Mobile Home Living!
Good question. That is something that I wanted to know as well
I live in southern Ontario, I live in a mobile home I want to replace the aluminum siding with vinyl. I will be putting up plywood boards first do I need to put plastic over insulation before the plywood? The inside walls are panelling not drywall.
Great info! I may plan to do stucco on one house and log siding on the other. What are your thoughts on stucco for the exterior? Do you think I can put a ceramic-tile roof? I’m trying to achieve a Mediterranean-style look.
I have had my mobile home for 8 years. I am debating on should I redo the siding now or wait. I purchased my home new. Also I am thinking about redoing the skirting which is vinyl and the next door neighbors have put holes in that side which is towards them, the other part of the skirting is in good shape. So should I replace it with a better skirting all the way around.
Mobile siding for the win!. Never thought about weight being an issue…especially when you have to maybe one day move the whole thing. What a conundrum.
Hi Lankovy,
About the best way to soundproof would be thicker insulation or soundproofing material between your wall and siding and get better windows. However, I’ve seen sound studios that just trimmed out or framed the soundproofing material on the interior wall like a picture frame and that may help without being too expensive or difficult. Best of luck!
Hi Deb,
You can install it and I’ve seen it done many times but I’ve spoken to a couple of pro’s and they don’t like the idea because of condensation and/or water damage. If the siding is healthy and you install gutters. Best of luck!
Can you put board and batton siding over metal mobile home siding or does it have to be removed first.
Sorry for being impolite, Crystal, my problem is that I need to reduce somehow the noise but without adding too much weight. Thanks, L.
JAMES HARDIE MAKES A STUCCO FINISHED FIBER CEMENT SHEETING BOARD THAT CAN EASILY BE USED IN REMODELING. THE CAVEAT IS THAT IT IS TOO HEAVY FOR SINGLE-WIDES AND OLDER DOUBLE-WIDES. RULE OF THUMB IS IF HOME HAS PLYWOOD SHEATHING THAT WAS INSTALLED BY THE MANUFACTURER UNDER THE EXISTING SIDING, THEN IT SHOULD HAVE THE STRUCTURAL CAPACITY FOR THE HEAVIER SIDING. ANOTHER FACTOR IS THE HUD BUILDING CODE RATING. IF IT IS A HUD-3 RATING YOU SHOULD BE GOOD TO GO. OTHERWISE CONTACT YOUR LOCAL BUILDING OFFICIAL.
Hi Wendy,
A pitched roof would be expensive and probably not necessary. A standard transition would work. You can read more about roofs for additions here.
My aluminum clad mobile home In Ottawa Canada has a flat roof. This spring I’m thinking of putting vinyl siding on and putting on a screened in porch. I’m not sure how to have the roof of the porch meet up with the roof of the mobile. Would it be best to get a pitched roof put on the mobile first?
Hi Audrey!
Thanks for letting me know! I think I have it fixed but please let me know if you’re still not seeing them please let me know (you may need to clear your browser’s cache). I am at the mercy of technology and I struggle with it sometimes.
Thank you!
So sorry. I am happy to report that I in fact can see all the pics! Patience is a virtue…
I appreciate all the info. It’s like one stop shopping! All your pics seem to be gone in your siding articles. Any chance it’s an easy fix? I absorb better with visuals 🙂
Hi Faith,
With vinyl you will start at the bottom and overlap as you go. Screw the vinyl into your studs through the holes in the top. You’ll overlap the next piece above it to cover the holes. You’ll want to ‘stack’ the each piece of vinyl like brick so the pieces end in various places, otherwise, the seam will create a straight line.
Best of luck!
When removing old siding and replacing with new siding (vinyl), should the siding be started at the top or the bottom?
Hi David!
You can email me anytime at [email protected]. I’d love to see how that green stain took. I’m obsessed with the stained wood and resin tables right now. I’m trying to figure out how to get that look on my countertop.
Look forward to getting your email!
Hi guys
As you’ve seen my 1955 Fleetwood Custom the coach itself is like a hotdog in a bun. It has a floating roof over it and the California room and on the other side is the added bedroom and bathroom. I’ve always loved board and batten siding. I had it on my 1950 house in Sherman Oaks. Can I go over the existing horizontal wood that’s weathered? I could even insulat it over the old stuff and then do the B&B and in wood, not plastic
I finally took down the drop ceiling of aspostos squares to expose the beamed ceiling. I’d leave it natural but half of it was painted yellow. I’m thinking of a grey green and panel the three walls with my left over clear pine panels. At Lowe’s in the paint department someone returned a wood sealer with color in it. It looked like the emerald city. I had them put a touch of grey in it and I love how it looks on the panels. It’s stain and brings out the color of the different wood. I have mahogany barn doors I used it on and tried samples on the panels in my carport. I’ll try and see if I can download pictures. The stain was $38 but marked down to $15 for a gallon and I bought both. One mans trash is another mans trailer find!f. Crystal how do I download pictures? Send them to you directly?
Hi Eric,
I’m not too familiar with fiber cement but I’m told that it is possible with proper framing and/or reinforcement. What proper framing/reinforcement means is the question since there are so many variables at play: installation setup, size, ceiling, and framing, etc.
I would contact a dealer and see what they have to say. Sorry, I can’t be any help.
I have a 900 sq ft 1988 Clayton manufactured home and I just built a 600 sq ft addition. I’m looking at siding the whole thing with Nichiboard fiber cement siding but I’m concerned about the weight on the manufactured home section. The metal girds on the block pillars under the house are set 3 feet from the edge of the walls on all sides with tapered metal extensions along every 3rd joist narrowing down to a lip under the walls. Is that really enough to support fiber cement? Thanks for all the info on your site!
I have just moved into an older (1970) mobile home. It has aluminum siding and skirting. Having always lived in a “stick built” house for over 70 years this is all new to me. I know that dirt should not be above the foundation on a wooden frame home, what is the rule of thumb with aluminum siding? I enjoy gardening so I want to get rid of all the rock surrounding my mobile home. In order for the planting beds to be level or close to level with the sidewalks I would need to have the dirt extend about 4″ above the bottom of the skirting. What, if any, issues could that cause?
It’s best to remove the framing around the windows so you can seal the windows properly with the new siding intact. While each job is different, installing new siding is a great time to update your jams, caulking and weatherproofing.
Best of luck!
Hi Marion,
Redman is the brand my father bought in 1986 and we had a ton of problems through the years. The siding and trim were our biggest issues. We had leaks on roofing, windows, doors, etc. Dad bought a model without any exterior sheathing under the siding for some reason – it was just vinyl siding attached to frame and insulation (I didn’t even see plastic sheathing on the ends). So, I’m gonna say it probably was very common – they seemed to cut corners a lot.
Best of luck!
Is it common for Redman to put cheap T1-11 siding on and not paint it under the trim? Our is 24 years old and now all the bottom underneath the trim is rotten. Redman is well known for quality homes. I cant believe they did this. We are trying to figure out how to deal with the section of bottom that is rotted now.
Do you have to remove windows to put plywood siding on?
Hi Marisa,
I don’t know anyone in your area but maybe another reader can help out. In WV, I think I saw a commercial for Window World about getting windows and siding on payments. I’m not sure if they are a national company though. Sorry!
I am looking to reside my doublewide with the vinyl insulated siding. I’m just having trouble finding someone that can do the job at a reasonable price with possible payment plan. Do you know how I can find the right person to talk with?
Hi Val,
It is a very smart idea to get those close up. If nothing else, caulk all the seams of the window and then patch the hole with insulation and then sheathing and something to use as siding (making sure it’s all sealed well). You may want to add a gutter above the windows so water doesn’t travel down the side of the home. This will at lower the possibility of leaks.
Let me know how it goes!
I need to remove 2 windows that the previous owner tiled over on the inside and left open on the outside of my mobile home. I realize there is much involved in removing, bracing, insulating and water proofing. My question – can the siding be pieced together to cover the now empty space or should the entire length of siding be replaced? The area is approx 2ft W x 6ft L on the back of the mobile home which is exposed to all elements.
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Hi Terry,
Siding is one of those things that are dependent on a lot of variables: location, type, and whether the old siding has to be removed are just three. You should be able to get a couple of appraisals for free from local companies.
best of luck!
I just had to evict someone. They sold their home and misled the new owner by telling him he could leave it in our park and sublet it. Both against our rules. I am trying to figure out a way to save this new owner some money, a young man, with a family who planned on renting it out. I am thinking of asking him to put new siding on the home and if he can I will let him forego the cost of moving and just leave the home here and sell it to someone who will stay here. I need a ball park price to mention to him. Just a ballpark price on vinyl. It is a single wide and I think 60 feet long. Flat roof:( It may cost more to put on siding. I just do not have a clue. Can the new vinyl siding be put over the old metal siding? Ballpark price of the cheapest vinyl and installation.
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Hi Sue,
Yes, it can but please be especially careful to seal it very well so that no water can get in between.
Can smart wood primed 4×8 panels be installed over original T1 11siding on a double wide 1993 Redman Manufactured home? After spot cut out and replace rotten wood sections.
It is true that vinyl last longer and it is very easy to clean and repair.
Hi John,
You actually have a better siding situation than most, as a lot of standard homes (with no upgrades) don’t even have the styrofoam. It’s just vinyl siding attached straight to the studs with some insulation in between. Your home was likely a bit more expensive than the basic model.
To be honest, your question is over my head. I do know that moisture is going to be an issue for you (ceiling and siding modifications typically always incur moisture issues) but the remedy is going to depend on the products you use. Sorry I can’t be more helpful!
PS Always great to hear from a fellow West Virginian!
I am in the process of planning a residing project on my 1999 Doublewide here in WV. Last year when changing some of the existing siding I learned that the home is sided in vinyl with nothing between it and the interior walls but Insulation and some green Styrofoam about an 1/8 inch thick. Nothing structural on the exterior walls at all (I was wondering why my heating bill was so high in the winter). My plan for next year is to replace all of the original siding but before I do, I want to sheath and wrap the exterior to better seal it from the elements then reside with new Vinyl. Is there anything I need to be aware of before hand as far as preventing moisture buildup inside? Are my choice in materials wise ones?
HI Kristie,
I’m not very knowledgeable about this topic so I’m going to email a friend of mine that does siding and window installation and see what he recommends. I have seen companies just attach a new stud to the old (like a king stud but with no structural integrity) to extend the surface area for attaching sheet rock and such but I’m not sure that is the proper method for siding installation.
I’ll comment under this one when I hear back from my friend.
We are in the process of residing our 1999 double wide, using a cement board plank. The house was originally sided with vinyl that has a black coated fiber board under it. Once we put up the window and corner trim, there are then no studs to nail the end of the plank to. The stud can be 8-10″ away. We cannot afford to put wood sheathing up and then the siding. How have others handled this?
Hi Amber,
Unfortunately, I’m from WV and know very little about how mobile homes are done in the West. I do know that stucco is used often as a siding but I do not know the intricacies of it. I’ll add the topic to my list of to-write posts.
Here’s what I found on Google: https://www.google.com/search?q=stucco+siding+for+mobile+homes&rlz=1C1CHFX_enUS589US589&oq=stucco+siding+on+mobile+ho&aqs=chrome.1.69i57j0l3.5028j0j7&sourceid=chrome&ie=UTF-8
The third link, http://www.solarhaven.org/Insulating.htm, is really helpful. I would consult a reputable plastering contractor in your area for more info.
Best of luck! Thanks for reading MHL!
I live in Arizona and see a lot of stucco sided mfg homes. I’m about to move into a double wide and in the subdivision it is located in, there are two that have been stucco’d. I’ve read there is such a thing as stucco siding for mfg homes. Either having one stucco’d or getting the siding I’d like to have more information on – especially some costs. I’ve not been able to find such in Google searches. Do you have a resource for this?
It wouldn’t let me show the picture, but it is the light green coastal modular home.
Hello!
I just was wondering if you have source for this amazing home pictured in your siding article, thank you!
Hi Gary!
Sounds like you have a great plan coming together! Smart! I’d love to see how it turns out – could you please take photos as you go?
My Prefab 32 by 24 classroom just got moved to the land was a contractor auction on several of them. It is going to be my retirement cabin, with Log siding and stone skirting. Log is to be on inside walls as well. A porch added, etc. Its gona take some time and money to get her done but A good investment for what the $340.00. plus $2800.00 moving and set up i cant go wrong. i think it will blend right in here in the SC mountains.
Hi Steven!
Fauxpanels.com seems to be the most recognized online supplier.
Just a note, faux siding is expensive! Best of luck!
I can not find any info on where to purchase faux stone siding for a mobile home nor can I find info on how to install it. Do you have any sources for this? I live in Alabama and carpenter bee’s are hard on us here therefore i can not go with any kind of wood. I wanted a log look but now am persuaded that stone look is best.
Thank you! Love the site.
I agree Michael
I just look into vinyl cost of siding I have 16 by 80 mobile home priced between
6000 to 7000 on vinyl
cement board to do all around the home is about 2000 big difference plus the extra weather protection I need here in Minnesota
Thanks so much for commenting Adin! I would love to see your home when you get it finished (and share it)!
Hi Crystal, thank you so much for this article. Early this year we bought a 3-bedroom 1985 Schultz Mobile Home and we are searching for ideas on the siding. And I find your article helpful. We are considering the log cabin look as well, but we would be using a faux log, I think. And like you said, we would love to shop locally or within the state to hopefully cut the shipping cost. I even told my husband about using maybe some corrugated metal roof as siding, but I am not sure how that would go. We are definitely going to do some research before we decide on what to use for the siding. The Hardie Plank sounds good to though. Thanks again!
Thank you so much for the info Norm! I’m not very informed of the different types of wood so that’s great information to have. Appreciate you taking the time to let us know and if you have any more tips or tricks please share them! Thank you!!
Eastern Hemlock, might be the most under used really cool siding. Look at the barns that have stood for 100+ years, that’s likely hemlock as the siding. Hemlock will perform very well, except it cannot touch the ground. Keeping the hemlock a foot off the ground should be no problem for mobile homes. You can get it at the Local Amish sawmills.
Hi,it not that simple n replacing siding on a older single wide.most have no or little overhang.to do vinyl right requires 7/16 osb,housewrap,and the vinyl siding.if u have no overhang,this pushes your exterior out,thus water runnin behind your siding .you must add overhang before adding vinyl with no overhang.
Hi Michael!
Most premium construction products have a tendency to fluctuate wildly depending on the time of year here in my neck of the woods but vinyl usually always runs only a few cents per foot. I’ve heard that vinyl is pretty expensive in some parts of the country though, I guess it all depends on where you’re at and how much you buy – my husbands company does buy vinyl and metal roofing in bulk but we can’t do that with lumber and cement products cause we simply don’t have enough dry storage so we end up paying more than we should have to.
I’ll try to look it up through our supplier when I get a chance and see what we’re paying for them. Thanks!
I’m not sure where you come up with the idea that fiber-cement siding is more expensive than vinyl. My home improvement company does dozens of siding jobs per year, and we install Hardie and LP Smartside for much less than the cost homeowners have been quoted for vinyl. We don’t work a lot on mobile homes, but the Hardie or Smartside Panels would seem to be a better choice than lap siding, due to lower weight and fewer seams.
Hi Susan!
A home with the log cabin look is gorgeous! There’s several options for you – you can use real wood, vinyl, and even cement shaped in the log wood – they have flat backs with the log curve on the front, adding special corner pieces adds the extra touch to resemble a true log cabin. That’s probably the cheapest option and it looks great. There’s lots of dealers online and you can also order from your local home improvement store.
Here’s the Google search for log siding – there’s lots of online dealers but shipping would probably be expensive: Log Siding
Another option is your local sawmill (if real wood is preferred), that would probably cut down on costs a bit because there’s no shipping. You could also contact your local contractor and ask them about their log siding resource – they’ve probably tracked down the cheapest place for your area.
Log siding is beautiful – I hope you find exactly what you are looking for!
Could I have some info about the mobile home sidings? We are particularly interested in the logs to make it resemble a log cabin! Thanks
Hi Marie! I would love to see (and share) your home! It sounds like you have gotten a real gem and are living in exactly the type of home I dream of. If you ever want to have your home featured on MMHL please contact me. My email is [email protected]. Thanks so much for commenting!
do you have any pictures of kids room remodels in mobile homes..it would be perfect if i could find some pics of those as well as ones with storage solutions…i have a 3 bedroom single wide and i was looking for a way to make the two rooms roomier for my boys but in a cute way…thanks
Thank you very much Mr. Parker for your comment and your link! I appreciate it very much. Mobile Homes can be updated so easily with new siding and it can change the whole look. The only downfall is cost but it's an investment well worth it.
I agree that vinyl siding last long and budget friendly. Different designs of vinyl are coming in the market for vinyl siding designing. If anyone like the look of wooden siding then i suggest to use cedar siding…
installing vinyl siding